Photo gallery: an insight into the animals at Dorset shelters

Learn more about the backgrounds and current lives of these rescued animals from Margaret Green Animal Rescue and RSPCA’s Ashley Heath Animal Centre.

Many of the animals photographed below have ended up in animal rescue shelters because their owners can no longer care for them. According to Kate Wickins, manager at Margaret Green Animal Rescue, one of the biggest reasons why pets are given up is because of relationship break-ups and animals not being allowed in rented accommodation. She continued: “there are too many animals on this planet and not enough space for them”, excessive breeding being the main reason, when there are already so many animals looking for homes. See below the animals at Margaret Green Animal Rescue and Ashley Heath Animal Centre:

This is Foxy. Foxy came into Ashley Heath Animal Centre because she, along with three other cats, was found abandoned in a box in Southampton.

This is Marina. Currently living in Margaret Green Animal Rescue, Church Knowle.

The Garden of Remembrance at Margaret Green. Since opening in 1965, the garden is a tranquil place to reflect the loss of loved pets.

Ponies in their stable at Margaret Green. Again, they arrived here due to being given up by their previous owners.

Rabbits are the third most neglected pet in the UK. They are often placed into animal shelters because people do not realise the commitment and are not prepared to care for them for their lifetime (10-12 years).

This is Bilbo the one-eyed sheep. He was kicked by a horse before he arrived at Margaret Green, hence the missing eye.

Fred the goat looking very happy at Margaret Green Animal Rescue. Him and his brother Barney came here after their owner was unable to keep them any longer- the main reason animals come here.

Sooty was found alongside Foxy abandoned in the box. She is currently at Ashley Heath Animal Centre but with potential new owners on the way!

The view from Margaret Green's Remembrance Garden. Notice the goats roaming the fields.